The Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) is gearing up to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Somnath Temple with a two-day aerial display on May 10-11. Six Hawk Mk-132 aircraft will showcase coordinated aerobatic formations above the temple complex, blending heritage, aviation skill, and national symbolism in Prabhas Patan. This event is part of the broader ‘Somnath Amritparva-2026’ commemorations at the first Jyotirlinga shrine.
The SKAT, known as the “Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force,” will exhibit close-formation flying and aerobatic maneuvers to highlight precision, discipline, and teamwork. Renowned for their synchronized displays, the team has performed over 800 shows in India and abroad, including countries like China, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Established in 1996, the team operates Hawk Mk-132 aircraft made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi and Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh, the team of 13 trained pilots follows the motto “Sadaiva Sarvottam” (Always the Best), emphasizing precision and consistent training. The air display, scheduled for May 11 at 11 a.m. in the presence of the Prime Minister, will feature six Hawk Mk-132 aircraft showcasing coordinated aerial maneuvers under Group Captain Dasarathi’s leadership.
Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu mentioned that the display, a first over the Somnath Temple, will involve six aircraft performing coordinated aerial maneuvers. The Hawk aircraft, used for pilot training, are also capable of deployment in emergency and combat scenarios, including difficult terrain and wartime conditions. During the display, the aircraft are expected to fly at speeds ranging between 800 and 900 kilometers per hour.
A full rehearsal is planned for May 10 at 11 a.m., with the final performance on the following day. The jets will operate from Jamnagar Air Station, taking off together before executing various aerial patterns. Safety measures, including bird hazard control and awareness efforts to reduce bird activity near the flight zone, have been implemented. The Hawk aircraft have been equipped with indigenous colored smoke pods to release saffron, white, and green smoke trails representing the Indian National Flag.
